A.B.C. Backpackers in Thames on the Coromandel was recommended to us because of its location in the heart of Thames in an old hotel. It is still more of an old hotel than a backpackers. The rooms are enormous, but the walls could use a coat of paint and the carpets could be cleaned. The bunks in the bunk rooms are new and the mattresses also new. However, the beds in the double rooms are left over from the hotel, and they are past their “use by” date.
The lounge area was a single chair and a television that was on but displayed only static. The kitchen area contained the only table for eating. Fortunately, no one else was using the kitchen -- it definitely could not handle more than one group cooking and eating. While the kitchen appeared orderly, the counters needed to be wiped clean and the stove was “scuzzy.” The toilets and showers were dank and smelled of mildew. Practically no one uses this hostel, and I can understand why. Thames, the gateway to the Coromandel, is a bustling town full of tourists, so the hostel should be full.
The location is great and a grocery store is only a couple of blocks away. It is shame that someone does not invest a little effort and elbow grease to make this a prime backpackers. Until that happens, we recommend following the crowds and using other backpackers.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
June 2006
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